INCENTIVE TO PIG FARMERS

Press, Volume XCVIII, Issue 29024, 13 October 1959, Page 18

INCENTIVE TO PIG FARMERS

Grading Scheme To Operate (New Zealand Press Association) WELLINGTON, October 12. An incentive payment scheme for pig farmers was announced today by the Minister of Agriculture (Mr Skinner). Traders have agreed to offer producers a graded schedule providing for a premium of 2d per lb on a top grade of about 25 per cent, of total baconers killed.

The scheme will operate for a seven-months’ trial period from November 1. Mr Skinner said that an improvement in the general quality of pig carcases was needed.

“If the voluntary scheme proves ineffective compulsory measures may have to be invoked,” he said. Mr Skinner said the new scheme had been worked out by a committee comprising producer and trade representatives, set up last year. He said the scheme’s success depended on the goodwill of producers and traders.

Mr Skinner listed these requirements: that all traders offer and operate the premium-grade schedule; that differential prices between grades be maintained over the trial period; that the 2d per lb differential between the top and main prime grades should apply when the over-all grading position is such that about 25 per cent, of baconers is in the premium grade. Mr Skinner said the Department of Agriculture was prepared to supervise the application of agreed grading standards.